400 Participants Join 'Golek Garwo' Matchmaking Programme at Nikah Fest 2026

Approximately 400 individuals participated in the Golek Garwo (searching for a partner) programme, held as part of the Nikah Fest and Islamic Wedding Expo at the SMESCO Exhibition Hall, South Jakarta, on Sunday (28/06/2026).

Initiated by the Directorate General of Islamic Community Guidance (Bimas Islam) of the Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag), the programme serves as an effort to assist members of the public in finding partners while encouraging the formation of ‘sakinah’ (peaceful) families amidst the trend of declining marriage rates.

The Director General of Islamic Community Guidance, Abu Rokhmad, stated that this programme is the result of a collaboration between the Directorate General of Bimas Islam, the Association of Registrars of Marriage of the Republic of Indonesia (APRI), and the Golelar Garwo Community or the Indonesian Taaruf Forum (Fortais).

“Today, in addition to the exhibition which remains open to the public for information regarding various wedding vendors, we are also hosting an equally interesting activity, namely Golek Garwo or matchmaking. This is a collaboration between the Directorate General of Bimas Islam with APRI and the Golek Garwo Community to facilitate singles so they can introduce themselves and find their desired partners,” Abu told Republika on Sunday (28/06/2026).

According to him, as of the event’s commencement, 400 participants had confirmed their attendance. This number has the potential to increase as the committee continues to accept on-site registrations.

“Today, there are 400 confirmed attendees. There are indeed more women than men; male participants account for approximately 30 per cent, with the remainder being women. The number may still increase as registration remains open on the spot,” he added.

Abu expressed hope that the activity would provide benefits to participants who are striving to find their life partners.